It’s not just slot machines that are additive but any form of gambling. When younger our daughter worked for a time at a newsagent she could not believe the amount of money people wasted on lottery and lotto tickets. Coming from a family which does not gable this was an eye opener for her. All she could think of was how much better use the money could be put to.
If you have a gambler who is a problem in your family, what can you do to help them?
Talking to them about their problem and letting them know how much it hurts you or your family and how difficult it makes life for you and your family may help or it may not. The reality is that unless they recognize that they have a problem all your pleading, nagging, arguing or other forms of coercion will not help them. In fact it could make the situation worse, as in an argumentative situation people often automatically go on the defensive,try and justify their behavior and refuse to listen to reason.
The problem is gambling like alcohol and drug use is an addiction. They have to not only recognize they have a problem but want to do something about it. Like any addiction of it was so easy to control it, it would not be a problem. Even if they attempt to give it up like the alcoholic or drug addict they may at times slip back onto familiar patterns.
From a purely financial point of view you may need to set up ways to ensure your home and finances are protected. You will also need to ensure that you have the support of others around you who have been through such an experience and understand.
Most importantly if the gambler seeks to stop, then do not expose them to situations where they will be tempted to gamble.
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